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We’ve all been there. Scrolling through Pinterest or Instagram, we get swept away by the latest home decor trends. Those sleek, stylish setups look absolutely stunning! But as someone with over 15 years of experience in home interior design, I can tell you that sometimes, what looks good initially can turn into a real headache down the line, not to mention a drain on your wallet.
Today, we’re going to talk about those very products – the ones that might catch your eye but aren’t the smartest choices for a long-lasting and low-maintenance home. Let’s dive in!
Trendy WC Colors: Stick to the Classics
Those colored commodes that perfectly match your bathroom’s theme might look luxurious straight out of a high-end magazine. However, darker shades often show watermarks very easily, demanding constant cleaning. This is why you’ll often see white or ivory-colored WCs. They look clean, and watermarks are less visible. Plus, white effortlessly blends with most tile colors, making it a versatile and practical choice.
Slanted Chimneys: Style Over Substance?
Slanted chimneys are all the rage in modern kitchens, with their sleek design and features like gesture control. While they look premium and often have good suction power, their inclined surface tends to prominently display greasy stains. This means frequent and often tedious cleaning.
On the other hand, traditional hood chimneys with a horizontal surface directly above your stovetop or hob offer more efficient suction.
And speaking of chimneys, always consider a ducted chimney over a ductless one if possible. Ducted chimneys effectively expel gases outside through a pipe, whereas ductless ones might leave some fumes lingering in your kitchen.
Tiled Kitchen Countertops: Beauty That Fades Fast
While some brands offer kitchen countertop tiles with impressive designs, they often fall short in practicality. They can be prone to cracks during installation, and scratches become easily visible with everyday use. The glossy finish can also dull over time, especially with exposure to acidic foods.
So, what’s a better alternative? Granite is an excellent choice for kitchen countertops. It’s durable, scratch-resistant, unaffected by acidic foods, relatively affordable, and can withstand heat.
While some might consider marble, I wouldn’t recommend it for kitchen countertops. It’s more porous than granite, and acidic substances can easily leave marks.
If you have a higher budget, quartz is a fantastic option with many modern designs and a luxurious feel. However, keep in mind that it might be slightly less heat-resistant than granite.
Piano or Waterfall Sinks: More Show Than Practicality
These sinks definitely have a luxurious and modern appeal, and watching someone use them to clean dishes or vegetables can look quite elegant. However, the reality of using a piano sink comes with a few drawbacks:
- They are more expensive than regular sinks.
- Installation can be complex, often requiring specialized plumbers.
- Maintenance and repairs can be difficult and costly.
- They might offer less depth compared to traditional sinks.
- They can be susceptible to scratches and stains.
For high-usage areas, a regular sink is often a more practical choice.
Hob vs. Gas Stove: Functionality Wins
Hobs integrated into the kitchen countertop offer a minimalist and clean aesthetic. However, they might not be as practical as a traditional gas stove.
- Cost: Gas stoves are generally more affordable.
- Installation: Hobs require cutting into your countertop, making replacement with a different size or shape challenging.
- Cleaning: Cleaning around the edges of a hob can be difficult, whereas a gas stove can be lifted for easier cleaning.
- Versatility: Placing large pots on a hob can be restrictive if space behind is limited, while a gas stove offers more flexibility.
Modern gas stoves now come in various designs and with many useful features, making them a worthy consideration.
Dark-Colored CP Fittings and Wash Basins: A Magnet for Water Stains
Golden and black CP (ceramic plumbing) fittings look stylish in modern bathrooms. However, in areas with hard water, these dark surfaces tend to show water spots very prominently. Cleaning them can become a frequent and frustrating task, and the stains can be stubborn.
Similarly, dark-colored wash basins can also develop white water stains over time with regular use. Sticking to classic stainless steel for fittings and lighter shades for basins is often a more practical approach.
MDF/HDHMR in Moisture-Prone Areas: A Recipe for Disaster
Using MDF (Medium-Density Fiberboard) or HDHMR (High-Density High Moisture Resistance) in areas with high moisture, like bathrooms and kitchens, is generally not a good idea. These materials are moisture-sensitive and can get damaged easily.
For such areas, it’s best to opt for plywood, especially BWR (Boiling Water Resistant) or marine-grade plywood, which is designed to withstand moisture and water exposure.
Light-Colored Velvet Sofas: Beauty That Requires High Maintenance
Light-colored velvet sofas can look incredibly luxurious in a living room. However, they tend to show even small stains very easily. When choosing sofa fabrics and colors, it’s crucial to consider not just the look but also the maintenance involved. Darker colors and more durable fabrics can be more practical in the long run.
Glass Railings with Insufficient Support: Safety First
Glass railings can provide a premium and unobstructed view. However, it’s essential to ensure they have proper support, such as with stainless steel pipes, which offer both aesthetics and structural integrity. Railings with minimal support for a purely “glass-heavy” look can become loose or even dangerous over time. Additionally, all glass railings, especially those in balconies, require regular cleaning to maintain their appearance.
Your Experiences Matter!
Have you had any similar experiences where a stylish item turned out to be more trouble than it’s worth? Share your stories in the comments below to help others make informed decisions!